Boys volleyball dominates Culver City

On Tuesday, Apr. 10, the boys volleyball team dominated Culver City High School in their second home game of the season, winning 3-0.The excitement built as spectators gathered in the North Gym to watch the players prepare for the first serve of the game. Both teams fought to score and kept the game close as Samo was ahead 13-10. The pressure on the players built as they awaited the next serve, eager to get ahead. As the game progressed, Samo utilized their strong serving and offensive skills to gain a lead of 15-10.Samo was determined to finish the first match strong, and continued to serve aces on the other team to bring the score to 21-12. Even though they were ahead, Samo’s motivation lead them to score the last few points of the game to win 25-13.“I think we played very well, but our passing always needs improvement,” team co-captain Ryan Rooke (’18) said.Samo yet again dominated in the second set, gaining point after point from their strong offense that landed kills each time. Samo kept their lead consistent as the score was 17-12. Though they were ahead, it did not stop them from playing to their best ability as they continued to play tough. Unsurprisingly, Samo won 25-13 with high hopes for the third set.Samo went into the third set confident that they would win the game. The game started out close, but yet again Samo was able to pull ahead to gain a substantial lead of 17-9. Culver City called a time out and Samo excitedly ran into a huddle, ready to win the game. Samo aced Culver multiple times and kept their offense alert to keep the plays going. After Samo was 10 points ahead, with a score of 20-10, Culver called another time out. Samo came back after the time out to win the game 25-14.“We were consistent and we followed our assignments,” team co-captain Jake Mitchell (’19) said.Although Samo dominated over Culver City, the team recognizes areas that need improvement in order to go far in the Ocean League and CIF. Their win over Culver City definitely points toward a successful season ahead.“The team is serving consistently tough right now, and we are working on a disciplined defense,” head coach Liane Sato said. “This season we have an amazing group of student athletes who work hard with each other and for each other.”